The sixth-generation iPad, released in 2018, boasts a stunning 9.7-inch display that holds up very well several years after its launch. But as more and more kids and young students get their hands on this education-oriented iPad, the risk of cracks and smashed displays increases. To protect your iPad and get the most value out of it, you need to shield it with a proper screen protector. We’ve rounded up the best screen protectors for the 2018 iPad, with an emphasis on thinness, strength, and durability.
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Poetic Tempered Glass
Good, strong glass protection doesn’t have to cost a fortune, and Poetic is a great brand to turn to if you don’t want all the bells and whistles offered by other manufacturers. The Poetic Tempered Glass protector adds a thin layer of tempered glass to your screen that protects against scratches, dust, and scrapes. It offers protection against fingerprints and other marks thanks to an oleophobic coating, and it works with protective cases too. Poetic claims a transparency rating of 99%, so it shouldn’t interfere with your normal use, and says installation is a cinch. It might not have some of the advanced features other screen protectors claim, but if you want a basic, cheap glass protector, Poetic is a great choice.
Ainope Tempered Glass Screen Protector
The Ainope Tempered Glass Screen Protector supports 23 pounds of force to shield your iPad from the ill effects of scratchy keys, coins, pocket knives, and other hard-edged items you may have around your home or office. This tempered glass two-pack provides a bubble-free easy mount complete with an installation frame. It also shields your iPad from fingerprints, sweat, and oil residue to maintain superior screen clarity.
Moshi iVisor AG
The iVisor AG is one of Moshi’s most popular screen protectors, and it’s easy to see why. The surface coating reduces glare on the screen, resists smudges and scratches, and has the toughness you should expect from a tempered glass screen protector. The application process is simple and straightforward — but what really sets Moshi’s screen protector apart from the rest is that it’s washable and reusable. That’s right — you can take it off your iPad, wash it under the tap, and reapply it once the adhesive has dried.
UAG Glass Screen Shield
A big name in protective cases, you shouldn’t pass up UAG’s screen protection options, either. UAG’s Glass Screen has a 9H hardness rating. It’s highly resistant to scratches and helps absorb a blow should the worst happen. It’s easy to apply and comes with an oleophobic screen coating that resists fingerprints and oils, and stops them from smudging the view. It’s also exceptionally thin at only 0.2mm thick. It’s on the expensive side, but if you want great protection that’s so thin as to almost not be there, then UAG is your bag.
Zagg InvisibleShield Glass
Made with four layers of protection, the Zagg InvisibleShield Glass is industry veteran InvisibleShield’s premier offering for the iPad. A special oleophobic coating ensures that skin oils are kept away from the screen and are easy to clean, while also providing a super-smooth surface that mimics the feel of your iPad’s own Retina screen. Application is easy too — just line it up, press it down, and let it go. It’s rated up to a hardness of 9H, and should protect against most knocks and bumps. However, it’s the most expensive option on this list.
Targus Tempered Glass Screen Protector
The Targus Tempered Glass Screen Protector is manufactured from Japanese Asahi glass. It boasts a material hardness rated at 9H, offering high protection against scratches. The screen protector installs bubble-free, and you can remove and replace it without leaving residue. Even if there’s an accident, the screen won’t shatter into small, sharp pieces. Its oleophobic coating makes it easy to wipe off fingerprints and smudges.
Laut Prime Glass
This is a finely polished glass screen protector that comes with all the usual accompaniments you’d expect. The 9H surface hardness is shatter-resistant tempered glass with an oleophobic coating that protects your screen from fingerprints and grease. Additionally, the slightly rounded edges prevent that hard edge feeling when you reach the sides of the protector, making this feel slightly more luxurious. The Laut Prime Glass is easy to apply and you don’t have to worry about smoothing out air bubbles. It’s a great screen protector — but it may be hard to justify the high cost.
Olixar Tempered Glass Screen Protector
Something of an up-and-comer in the accessories biz, Olixar has quietly been making a name for itself with its range of mobile accessories. It’s not one of the cheapest products available, but this anti-shatter film is an ideal option if you want more protection without compromising on the touch screen response. The Olixar Tempered Glass Screen Protector has a 9H hardness rating and is 0.33mm thick. It’s ultra-clear, letting through 95 percent of light — compared to the usual 80-percent — and it’s easy to apply. An application card and cleaning cloth come in the package.
Supershieldz Anti-Glare Film Protector (4 pack)
Supershieldz uses first-rate Japanese substances to do an incredible job of offering extra dependable protection when it comes to scrapes, scratches, and dust that are inevitable with everyday iPad use. These affordable protectors include a sheet of special anti-glare material so you can use your tablet outside even on the brightest, sunniest days. The Supershieldz Anti-Glare Film is available for just $8 for a four-pack — and if you just want one, you can buy it for only $2.
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